Swamp Trail at Theodore Roosevelt Island

The Swamp Trail is one of 3 trails on Theodore Roosevelt Island, all of which are named for the habitat they go through. The Swamp Trail is the longest of the 3, and pawrfect for a walk with your fur-baby. With many things to see, hear and smell, your four-footed explorer will have a ball! It's also really easy to get to by walking from Georgetown, or driving and parking on the George Washington Memorial Parkway and walking over the short footbridge. The parking area features restrooms and drinking water, too. 

A sign on the island side of the footbridge announces that you've arrived, and the Swamp Trail can be accessed by turning left at the sign and walking counter-clockwise around the island. In spring and summer, you'll see wildflowers and thick foliage, and in fall the barktiful colorful foliage. Benches are great places to sit with your furry buddy for a snack! 

At various points on this trail, you'll be inspired by the pawtastic views of DC, especially Georgetown, and the Potomac. Wading birds, raptors and songbirds call the island home and the marshy swamp you're walking through on this trail provides ample opportunity to see them all! Pea gravel trails and boardwalks protect your feet (and Fido's!) from the water and muck, and feature a furtastic overlook for viewing the river. 

In the warm months, pups can practice their doggy paddle, and you can join them if you like. Be prepared with a towel! Woof! The only drawback to this trail is the sometimes noisy airport noise as planes approach DCA down the river, and the highway traffic on the Parkway, but even these are overcome by the beauty of the Swamp Trail, which is least-traveled early in the morning or just before sunset. 

Whether you and your fur-baby live in Metro DC or are visiting from out of town, plan to take a break from the busy city and the monuments and regain a sense of nature!